Fall = Big Trout

October in Pennsylvania is a unique and beautiful time.  As the air begins to crisp and the fall foliage paints a perfect backdrop, the fishing once again begins to pick up.  Fish of all species collectively focus on one goal in preparation of the cold winter months.  And that goal; to get fat.  The fall feeding frenzy, as I like to call it, is on as the days get shorter and colder.  So getcha rod out and get in on the action!

To catch bigger than average fish in the fall you mush pay attention to the weather.  As each low pressure system sweeps through the area the fish will become more active. Heading out the day of or the day prior to a cold front will increase your chances of bigger fish.  As a result of fish being focused more on getting food in their stomach, they will often let their guard down.  The bigger and older smart fish are easier to deceive during the fall for this reason.  Whereas these fish would take a much closer look and notice the imperfections of a fake lure, they take the risk in an attempt to get a hearty meal!  Dropping water temps will also trigger the fishes instinct to feed as they attempt to pack on the winter pounds. 

Another rule for bigger fall fish and bigger fall trout requires anglers to tie on the big tackle.  If you want to catch bigger trout in the fall you must tie on bigger lures.  The reason is simple.  As we learned, these fish are looking to eat.  They are looking for complete meals, not little snacks.  Look at it this way.  If you are looking to fill yourself at dinner, would you grab a side salad or a 16 oz steak?  If you had both floating toward you, which would you try to catch?  Steak trumps all.

I prefer Rapala's specifically when I am in pursuit of trout.  They just work best for me.  So when I am choosing which Rapala to through in the fall, I reach for nothing smaller than a size 8.  What has been working best in the last couple weeks has been the X-Rap style of Rapala.  Regardless of your lure preference, be sure you make your casts with a full meal at the end of your line, and not just a snack.
 
One topic that relates to trout in the fall is their spawning cycle.  Brown Trout and Brook Trout both spawn in the fall.  Rainbow trout on the other hand generally spawn in the early spring.  As browns and brooks go through the spawning ritual they become more aggressive.  In an attempt to protect their redd (or nest) and fight for territory, these aggressive behaviors often lead to strikes.   

As always, good luck, be safe on the water, and practice catch and release!


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